CMI Airport Insights & Guide
Key CMI Airport Topics:- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know CMI Airport
Discover Willard Airport (CMI), the heart of air travel in the Champaign-Urbana region, Illinois. Known for its ease of navigation and the unique "Fly Champaign" artwork that greets travelers, CMI offers a seamless start to your journey. Dive into our concise guide for essential insights, from flight updates and parking to dining and shopping, ensuring a smooth trip.
Explore more about airports with our Comprehensive Airport Guide at iFly.com.
iFly Tip: Discover how to deal with ear pressure and other in-flight issues on our Flying with Children page.
Navigating CMI's Terminals
CMI Airport, with the airport code CMI, has one terminal building with two levels. The lower level is for arrivals and baggage claim, while the upper level is for departures and ticketing. The terminal has a total of six gates, with two gates on the east end and four gates on the west end.
Major airlines that operate at CMI include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. American Airlines and Delta Air Lines operate from gates on the east end of the terminal, while United Airlines operates from gates on the west end of the terminal.
Passengers can easily navigate the terminal as it is not too large and has clear signage throughout. Restrooms, ATMs, and vending machines are available throughout the terminal. There is also a gift shop and a restaurant located near the security checkpoint.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
the airport in the United States only has one terminal, so passengers do not need to worry about navigating between multiple terminals. However, the terminal does offer a variety of amenities, including a restaurant, gift shop, and free Wi-Fi. Passengers can also take advantage of the airport's convenient parking options, with both short-term and long-term parking available. The airport also offers rental car services, making it easy for travelers to explore the surrounding area. Overall, Willard Airport provides a hassle-free travel experience for passengers.Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from CMI-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"CMI is a small airport with a single terminal, which makes it very easy to navigate. The check-in counters are right at the entrance, and security is just a short walk away. If you’re in a hurry, you’ll appreciate the simplicity." — John D., Champaign, IL, August 2023
"Since the airport is compact, there are fewer chances of getting lost. Just follow the signs, and you’ll be at your gate in no time. It’s a stress-free experience compared to larger airports." — Emily R., Urbana, IL, July 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The airport is about 10 minutes from downtown Champaign. I recommend using the local shuttle service; it’s reliable and reasonably priced. Taxis and rideshares are also readily available." — Michael S., Savoy, IL, September 2023
"If you’re renting a car, all the major car rental companies have desks right at the airport. It’s very convenient and saves you the hassle of arranging transportation separately." — Lisa K., Mahomet, IL, October 2023
Parking
"Parking at CMI is straightforward. There’s a long-term parking lot just a short walk from the terminal. The rates are reasonable, and I’ve never had trouble finding a spot." — Robert T., Tolono, IL, November 2023
"If you’re just picking someone up, the short-term parking lot is right next to the terminal. It’s free for the first 30 minutes, which is perfect for quick drop-offs and pick-ups." — Karen W., St. Joseph, IL, December 2023
Inside the Airport
"There’s a small café inside the terminal that offers a decent selection of snacks and drinks. It’s a good place to grab a quick bite while waiting for your flight." — David M., Champaign, IL, January 2024
"The gift shop has a nice variety of local products and souvenirs. If you forgot to buy a gift, you can find something unique here." — Susan P., Urbana, IL, February 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Since CMI is a smaller airport, security lines are usually short. However, it’s still a good idea to arrive at least an hour before your flight, especially during peak travel times." — James L., Savoy, IL, March 2024
"Check the flight status online before heading to the airport. Weather can sometimes cause delays, and it’s better to be informed in advance." — Laura H., Mahomet, IL, April 2024
iFly Tip: Make the most of your travel day by checking our airport wait times guide.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At CMI Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal building. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, so it is important to plan accordingly. Drivers are not allowed to park or leave their vehicles unattended at the curbside. Violators may be ticketed or towed.
If you need to wait for a passenger to arrive, there is a cell-phone waiting area located near the airport entrance. This area allows drivers to park their vehicles for free and wait until their passenger has arrived and collected their luggage. Once the passenger is ready, the driver can then proceed to the curbside for pick-up.
Parking Facilities & Options
The airport provides several parking options for travelers, including on-site parking lots and garages. The Short-Term Lot is located directly across from the terminal and is ideal for those who need to park for a few hours. The Long-Term Lot is a short walk from the terminal and is perfect for those who need to park for an extended period. The Economy Lot is the most economical option and is located a bit further from the terminal, but still within walking distance.
If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, Willard Airport also offers a Cell Phone Waiting Area where you can park for free for up to 30 minutes while you wait for your passenger to arrive.
Handicapped parking is available in all parking lots and garages, and there are designated spaces located near the terminal for easy access.
If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near Champaign Airport. These parking facilities offer shuttle service to and from the airport and can be a great option for those looking to save money on parking.
Transportation Options
CMI Airport offers several ground transportation options for travelers arriving at the airport:
- Car Rentals: CMI Airport provides several car rental companies, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. These companies offer a range of vehicle options to suit different travel needs. The car rental counters are conveniently located within the terminal, making it easy to pick up and drop off your rental vehicle.
- Taxis: Taxis are available at designated drop-off areas outside the terminal building. The fare for a taxi ride varies depending on the destination and time of day, so it's advisable to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Taxis offer a convenient and direct way to reach your destination.
- Ride-Share Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are available for pickup outside the terminal building. These services provide a more budget-friendly transportation option. However, be mindful of any restrictions regarding the number of passengers and the amount of luggage allowed in the vehicle.
- Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles offer a convenient way to travel to and from the airport, especially if you are heading to nearby hotels or other destinations. The pickup area for shuttle services is located outside the terminal building. Shuttle fares vary depending on the destination, and booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
- Public Transportation: The Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District provides bus service to and from the airport. The bus stop is located outside the terminal building, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers. Bus schedules and routes can be checked in advance to plan your trip efficiently.
iFly Tip: Make sure your carry-on meets airline requirements with our size and weight guidelines.
Airport Hotels
Traveling can be a hassle, but finding a comfortable place to rest shouldn't be. We've compiled a list of some of the best hotels nearby, offering a variety of amenities and conveniently located to reduce the stress of your travel. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly inn, a family-friendly suite, or a luxurious hotel, there are options to suit every traveler's needs. Many of these hotels are just a short drive from the airport and offer additional amenities such as free parking, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants. Discover the perfect place to rest your head by exploring our Champaign Airport Hotels.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
If you're looking for a bite to eat or some last-minute shopping before your flight, Champaign Airport has plenty of options to choose from. For a quick snack or coffee, head to Starbucks located in the main terminal. If you have more time to spare, check out Avion, a full-service restaurant and bar serving up American cuisine with a local twist. For those with dietary restrictions, Green Street Grille offers a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options.
When it comes to shopping, there are a few stores worth checking out. For travel essentials like snacks, magazines, and toiletries, visit the NewsLink store located near the security checkpoint. For a unique souvenir or gift, stop by the Illini Union Bookstore, which features University of Illinois merchandise and apparel. If you're in the mood for some luxury shopping, head to the Duty-Free Americas store for tax-free designer fragrances, cosmetics, and more.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at CMI can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Willard Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
- Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found service is available at the information desk, where staff members can assist you in locating your lost belongings.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Willard Airport features a designated children's area where kids can play and burn off some energy before their flight.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
- ATM: An ATM is available in the terminal, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
- First Aid Station: In case of a medical emergency, a first aid station is located in the terminal building. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it is important to stay informed about the status of your flight at all times. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status updates at CMI Airport in the United States.
One of the most common methods is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time information about flight departures, arrivals, and gate information. Simply locate the display for your airline and flight number, and you'll be able to see the latest updates.
Another convenient option is to use your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to track your flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancellations, or gate changes, and even check in for your flight. You can also sign up for text, email, or push notifications to receive updates directly to your phone.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at the airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Willard Airport (CMI) is located in Champaign, Illinois, United States.
- Terminal: The airport features a single terminal building.
- Airlines Served: The airport is primarily served by American Airlines and United Express. For a complete list of airlines, visit the CMI Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Willard Airport handles approximately 3,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 30 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from CMI are Chicago O'Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Charlotte, Chicago Midway, and Denver.
- Hub Status: Willard Airport is not a hub for any major airline, although American Airlines operates the most flights from the airport.
Airport History
Willard Airport, located in Savoy, Illinois, has a rich history dating back to the 1940s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1943 - The airport was built by the United States Army Air Corps as a training facility during World War II.
- 1945 - The airport was decommissioned by the military and turned over to the University of Illinois for use as a research facility.
- 1954 - The airport was officially opened to the public for commercial air travel.
- 1967 - A new terminal building was constructed to accommodate the growing number of passengers.
- 1987 - The airport was renamed Champaign Airport in honor of former University of Illinois president Arthur Cutts Willard.
- 1993 - A new air traffic control tower was built to improve safety and efficiency at the airport.
- 2014 - A major renovation project was completed, including upgrades to the terminal building, parking lot, and runway.
Today, CMI serves as an important transportation hub for the Champaign-Urbana metropolitan area and surrounding communities.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about University of Illinois Willard Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: CMI
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 217-244-8606
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: University of Illinois Willard Airport, 11 Airport Road, Savoy, IL 61874, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Willard Airport Q&A
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